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WINE SCIENCE

The Wine Science Center

Washington’s wine industry took a major step in creating a world class research program when it committed $7.4 million—paid through grower and winery assessments—to help construct a portion of Washington State University’s Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Wine Science Center at the WSU Tri-Cities campus in Richland.

The $23 million Wine Science Center, located in the heart of the state’s eastern wine regions, represents the industry’s focus on its future. The 40,000 square foot teaching and research facility contains some of the most advanced technologies and equipment to provide students and scientists with tools needed to solve viticulture and enology challenges specific to Washington growing conditions. A teaching vineyard is also part of the center.

Research focus areas to improve Washington’s premium wines include topics such as:

Washington State Education Consortium

Washington State offers Viticulture and Enology education programs that are spread across the state and offered in 7 different higher education colleges and universities. The programs are diverse and collaborative, and most have articulated courses and degrees. With over 900 wineries and over a quarter of a million tons of Vinifera wine grapes produced, the state has grown to rank 2nd in wineries and grape production. This important industry is supported by numerous education programs. Interns, well-trained and knowledgeable production and agriculture students and graduates are needed to match this growth. The consortium is made up of all two and four year institutions offering classes to and for the Washington state grape and wine industry.